Veteran shooting guard Joe Johnson, who was traded by the Utah Jazz to the Sacramento Kings Thursday, will receive a buyout from the franchise so he can join a contender — according to a report from the New York Times.

Johnson, 36, has appeared in 32 games this season and is averaging 7.3 points. He is expected to draw a lot of interest once he becomes a free agent due to his scoring ability and postseason experience.

The New York Times is also reporting the Kings are hopeful former high-flyer Vince Carter will stick with the team, even though Sacramento is headed for the lottery again.

Early read in Sacramento per league sources: Joe Johnson will definitely get his buyout, but the Kings would love for Vince Carter to stay through the season